HEALTH INFORMATION

Serotonin Syndrome

Topic Overview

Taking certain medicines together can cause a serious but uncommon condition called serotonin syndrome. Serotonin syndrome can happen when the level of a substance in your brain (called serotonin) gets too high. The problem can happen if you are taking a triptan, used for migraines, along with an antidepressant medicine such as an SSRI or an SNRI. It can also happen if you are taking more than one SSRI or SNRI for depression, anxiety, pain, or another condition.

The best way to prevent serotonin syndrome is to make sure all your doctors know about all of the medicines you are taking. If you are taking a triptan along with an antidepressant (or two antidepressants) and you notice any of these symptoms, call your doctor right away. Without treatment, serotonin syndrome can be deadly. But treatment usually can get rid of the symptoms in less than 24 hours.

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